Abstract:

Building on the success of last month's Chapter Meeting, this community event of the Institute for International Film Financing (IIFF) again features an exciting lineup of topical speakers spanning the divide between the worlds of film and finance.

As per IIFF’s mission to expand the scope and appeal of film financing, our Chapter Meetings bring together professionals from a wide range of relevant backgrounds for an evening of inspiring discussion and focused networking.

Entrepreneurs, technologists, attorneys, bankers, venture capitalists and other non-film professionals who wish to learn about or take an active role in independent film are invited to attend. Established and aspiring filmmakers are, naturally, more than welcome to join us as well.

The evening’s five presentations will address key issues relevant to filmmakers, financiers, and anyone interested in the economics, business mechanics, and financial dynamics of film. The presentations will be followed by Q&A time. Attendees will also have ample opportunity to interact and network with our expert presenters and amongst themselves.

An informal apres-meeting celebration will take place at a nearby restaurant starting at 8:30 pm.

The evening will be moderated by Patrick Reilly.

Meeting Venue:

SAP Labs North America
3410 Hillview Avenue, Building D
Palo Alto, CA 94304
(directions: via 101 | via 280)

Schedule:

6:30-7:00 pm ... Registration and introductions
7:00-8:30 pm ... Presentations and Q&A
8:30-9:30 pm ... Community time at nearby restaurant

Detailed Agenda:

1) Hollywood Profits II: The Drivers of Motion Picture Profitability.

Thomas Trenker, Chairman, Institute for International Film Financing (bio)

In part two of his series on quantitative insights, Tom casts light on some of the key factors predisposing movies for financial success. Hollywood has long applied a rigid set of "rules of thumb" to anticipate box office success and manage risk. Tom argues that, as the film industry continues to change, many of these legacy rules have outlived their usefulness. This presents savvy film entrepreneurs and smart financiers with compelling opportunities to generate value.

2) Understanding Venture Capital: The VC Financing Process and Its Application to Film.

Saad Khan, Venture Partner, Garage Technology Ventures (bio)

Saad explains the venture capital process from his consummate insider's perspective. How do VC's evaluate and select investments? What are the qualifying criteria and distinguishing characteristics VC's look for in a viable, early-stage opportunity? Specifically, Saad will also draw parallels between high-tech venture financing and film equity financing. Filmmakers and financiers alike stand to benefit from adopting best practices developed on Sand Hill Road.

3) Gamesville Meets Hollywood: Financing the Convergence of Electronic and Filmed Entertainment.

Rosanna Sun, CEO & Managing Producer, Velvetelvis Studios (bio)

Computer games have become a multi-billion-dollar staple of mainstream entertainment, recently surpassing movie ticket sales. Increasingly, the line between developing games and making movies blurs. Rosanna will discuss how the game and movie business crossfertilize each other. What can filmmakers learn from gamemakers, and vice versa? What role do game and film rights, respectively, play in financing an entertainment property? How may financiers capitalize on emerging opportunities at the junction of electronic and filmed entertainment?

4) How to Please an Angel: Winning and Working with Angel Investors in Silicon Valley.

Balaji Pitchaikani, Managing Director, ITF Global Partners; Steering Team, Sand Hill Angels (bio)

Balaji is intimately familiar with angel investing -- on both sides of the fence. Angel investors, the first professional money in many a successful startup, are among the most entrepreneurial, risk-taking and open-minded financiers. Accordingly, angels occupy a unique position in the VC universe that affords them special attention and care. Balaji will reveal how to: identify and attract angel investors, build productive relationships, close the deal, and create win-win situations that keep both sides coming back for more.

5) Co-finance & Co-production Deals: A Veteran Producer's Overview of Proven Financing Strategies.

Ron Merk, President, Premiere Pictures (bio)

The best co-financings & co-productions occur when each party views their role as a partner, not unlike that in a marriage. The goal: everyone at the table ends up happy that they got a fair deal. Speaking from extensive hands-on experience, Ron will share a detailed checklist of issues that any filmmaker needs to consider to reach a successful co-production agreement. Ron's points help structure deals that withstand all tests, eliminate misunderstandings and strategically move the production from an idea to a completed film that makes money for the partners.

Registration:

Pre-registration is available at http://iiff-chapter-sv.mollyguard.com (bottom of page)

Pre-registration NLT April 18th:
IIFF Member ... $15 if pre-registered no later than April 18th
Non-member ... $25

On-site registration:
IIFF Member ... $25
Non-member ... $35

NOTE: Non-member portion of attendance fee can be credited towards IIFF annual membership fee.

To inquire about membership with IIFF, email us at membership@filmfinancing.org, or approach Patrick Reilly during the event.

Questions?

Please direct your questions and inquiries regarding this event to:

Patrick Reilly
(831) 332-7127
patrick.reilly@filmfinancing.org

Link to this page:
http://iiff-chapter-sv.mollyguard.com

Keep in touch:
Join our discussion mailing list at http://forum.filmfinancing.org/